Abalos is new MMDA chairman

MANILA, Philippines — Former Mandaluyong City mayor Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. has been named chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Sen. Bong Go confirmed to The STAR yesterday.

Abalos replaced Danilo Lim, who died of a heart attack last week.

Go said Abalos would formally assume the MMDA post today.

When asked by reporters, MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago said she is not at liberty to confirm the appointment of Abalos.

Lim, a retired military officer, died over a week after he tested positive for COVID-19.

He was laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig on Friday.

Abalos’ father, Benjamin Sr., was former chairman of the MMDA and the Commission on Elections.